Materials Specialist

Essential Utilities, Inc.•Cary, NC

18h•Onsite

About The Position

The Materials Specialist is responsible for maintaining, monitoring, and supporting material and inventory operations to ensure timely availability, accuracy, and cost‑effective supply of materials. This role operates with minimal supervision, supports day‑to‑day material activities, and contributes to process improvements across inventory control, procurement support, and material distribution.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
Minimum of 2–5 years of materials, inventory, warehouse, or supply chain experience.
Forklift operator license is needed for this role or willing to obtain.
Working knowledge of inventory control, materials management, and supply chain principles.
Proficiency with inventory management systems and Microsoft Office tools.
Specifically, experience with excel and inventory management using SAP is a plus.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Ability to analyze inventory data and resolve discrepancies.
Effective communication skills for working with vendors, internal teams, and leadership.
Ability to prioritize tasks and work independently with minimal supervision.
Problem‑solving skills with a continuous improvement mindset.
Performs routine and moderately complex tasks with limited supervision.
Demonstrates sound judgment within defined guidelines and procedures.
Actively contributes to team goals and departmental improvements.
Escalates non‑routine or complex issues appropriately.

Nice To Haves

experience with excel and inventory management using SAP is a plus.

Responsibilities

Responsible for all inventory activity in three sites (Cary, Fayetteville, and Hampstead).
Maintain accurate inventory levels through reordering, receiving, issuing, tracking, and reconciling materials.
Verify incoming materials against purchase orders, packing slips, and documentation; resolve discrepancies, damages, or shortages.
Coordinate and maintain material availability to support operational, maintenance, field, and/or engineering teams
Assist with procurement activities, including vendor communication, pricing inquiries, and order/reorder placement as needed.
Ensure proper internal and physical controls are maintained over inventory, including performing inventory audits, cycle counts, and reconciliations; investigate and resolve variances.
Ensure proper storage, labeling, and organization of materials in accordance with safety and compliance requirements.
Utilize inventory management systems to document transactions, generate reports, and maintain data accuracy.
Identify opportunities to improve material handling processes, inventory accuracy, and operational efficiency.
Support department projects and initiatives related to inventory optimization and materials management.
Comply with all company policies, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements.
Provide guidance and informal support to less experienced materials or warehouse staff.
All other duties as assigned.